Will you see the southern lights (aurora australis) in Hobart tonight?

Tonight's odds in Hobart are fair: solar activity looks quiet tonight (Kp 5.7, below Hobart's usual Kp 6 threshold), and the sky outlook is partly cloudy.

Right now, the planet-wide aurora activity is Kp 2.7 (latest NOAA observed reading). What's Kp?

Best time to see the aurora in Hobart

The aurora is a planning trip, not a same-day dash. The best months in Hobart are June, July, May — long, dark nights plus the equinox activity boost, when the odds are genuinely worth booking around. Tonight is one data point; the next 7 nights below show how the window is trending.

Aurora forecast for Hobart — the next 3 nights

A ✓ means the forecast Kp clears Hobart's Kp 6 visibility threshold — but clear skies still decide the night.

Cloud outlook & dark hours

Cloud cover is the dealbreaker: a strong aurora under an overcast sky is a no-show. Tonight's dark-hours window in Hobart looks partly cloudy (about 30% cloud on average). The aurora is best viewed away from town lights with a clear view toward the south.

You need an unobstructed southern horizon over water: Cockle Creek, South Arm, or the kunanyi/Mt Wellington summit. Watch for Kp 6+ storm alerts.

Northern lights tours & stays in Hobart

Aurora tours from Hobart typically run $70–$240 per person. A guided "chase" that drives to the clearest sky is often worth it when the local forecast is cloudy.